KFC UK & Ireland powers ahead with record profits and major expansion plans

KFC UK & Ireland has announced a powerful performance across 2024 and 2025, combining record-breaking profits with an ambitious investment and expansion strategy that underscores the growing strength of the fried chicken market.

The fast-food chain’s pre-tax profits soared to £97.6 million for 2024 — up from £59.1 million the previous year — despite challenging trading conditions and a modest dip in turnover from £294.5 million to £280.2 million.

This impressive profitability comes as KFC intensifies its growth plans across the UK and Ireland, pledging to open 500 additional restaurants by 2035 and create more than 7,000 jobs over the next five years.

A buoyant summer and innovation-led sales growth

The company’s third-quarter results for 2025 revealed an 8% increase in in-store sales and a 12% rise in delivery orders compared with the same period the previous year. Total transactions grew 6%, driven by menu innovation and an emphasis on value .

New menu introductions — such as the 60-piece Popcorn Chicken Bucket and the Hot Wings Bucket — captured consumer attention and spurred incremental sales. Late-night trading also surged, with 44% growth in evening sales, reflecting shifting consumer habits and KFC’s agility in catering to new dining occasions .

KFC UK & Ireland General Manager Rob Swain said the company’s success was fuelled by “incredible momentum” and “proof that menu innovation and focus on value are landing with customers”. He added that with its people, brand strength, and ongoing investment, KFC is “in the best position to continue leading the fried chicken category for years to come” .

Investment and expansion: a £1.5bn commitment

The chain’s expansion plan forms part of a £1.5 billion investment strategy, which will channel £466 million into new site development, focusing on flagship drive-thru locations in strategic markets such as Ireland and the North West of England.

Additionally, over 200 existing outlets — approximately one-fifth of the portfolio — will undergo refurbishment to elevate the customer experience and operational efficiency. KFC has also earmarked £404 million to strengthen relationships with UK and Irish suppliers, enhancing local business resilience and sustainability within its value chain.

The brand recently expanded its format portfolio by launching its drinks-led spin-off brand, Kwench, with the first site opening in Liverpool — a signal of KFC’s intent to diversify its market presence.

Strategic acquisitions fuel growth

KFC has also strengthened its footprint through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Clokken and its Irish operations from EG Group, encompassing the trade and operations of 216 KFC outlets. This move consolidates the brand’s regional operations and positions it for sustained growth across both the UK and Ireland .

A signal of confidence for the UK quick-service market

For the wider hospitality and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sectors, KFC’s performance sends a clear message: value-driven innovation and operational investment remain key to weathering economic pressures.

As consumer demand shifts towards affordable indulgence and delivery convenience, brands that can balance innovation with value are likely to thrive. KFC’s strong results and expansion roadmap illustrate the power of combining brand heritage with modern customer insight — a lesson that many in hospitality, from traditional takeaways to large-scale operators, can draw inspiration from.